Halifax's best weekend brunches

Is there anything better than the weekend? Those two precious days – when we can sleep in, escape the 9-5 grind and start our morning at a leisurely pace – come with an extra special treat: BRUNCH! If you find yourself in Halifax, there’s no shortage of weekend breakfast options ranging from greasy spoons to upscale eateries to hidden gems off the beaten path. These local spots are all sure to please.

It can be tough to get a table at Coastal on weekends because it’s so popular, but this Halifax hotspot is definitely worth the wait. My advice: go a bit earlier than you would normally, just in case. Try the huevos rancheros – a Mexican breakfast classic – and you won’t be disappointed. If all else fails, head over to Mary’s Place across the street, which is generally less busy and also delicious.

The Goat serves up killer, original meals (just check out their Instagram account for some drool-worthy examples) and brunch is no exception. In the summertime, they have a charming patio with flowers and sunshine galore. They also serve up chilaquiles – basically fried eggs over nachos with guacamole – that will change your life. Okay, not really… but you get the idea. Make sure you order a Caesar too – theirs are definitely a step above the rest.

The Ardmore is one of Halifax’s trademark brunch spots, and the very definition of a no-frills diner. You can expect all the classics – overflowing bacon, eggs, hashbrowns and steaming hot coffee – all for less than $10. This is where I’d take the kids, my in-laws or basically anyone who wants a big breakfast with a bang. Before 11:00 am, their standard breakfast is just $3.99!

Mary’s Place is a very small diner – so small it normally only has one server – with a Middle Eastern twist. Yup, that’s right, you can get tablouleh even at the crack of dawn if your little heart desires. It’s right across the street from The Coastal Café, so a perfect back-up option if that’s full. Even if it’s not, it makes a great first choice too, serving up classic home-style brunch dishes with no fuss.

This place – affectionately known as the Mic Mac Tavern – is a Dartmouth institution. Everyone who goes here can’t stop raving about it for weeks, and for a good reason. The food here is flawless, unapologetically simple and mouth-wateringly delicious. The prices don’t hurt either; most weekends you can get a giant platter of steak and eggs – with all the trimmings – for just $15.99. A must-try if you’re on that side of the harbour.

Julia Kent is the food blogger behind The Domestic Blonde. Born and raised in Halifax but currently residing in Ottawa, she absolutely loves, loves, loves to cook and eat – particularly if there are noodles, hot sauce, cheese or red wine. When she’s not crafting new recipes, blabbering on her blog or restaurant-hopping, she’s got her nose in a book, playing soccer or watching really bad TV.

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